Guest:
🧍♂️ Steven White — Co-Founder & Creative Director, [Different Regard](https://differentregard.com)
📍 Location: Howard Street, Baltimore, Maryland
Highlights:
* Steven’s journey from finance to fashion — and how narcolepsy changed his path
* Founding story of Different Regard (2010–2011) and building an in-house factory by 2013
* Transition from T-shirts to fully tailored suits and small-batch production
* The philosophy behind custom consultations and valuing craftsmanship
* Baltimore’s role as a creative hub and why Steven chooses to stay and build there
* Mentorship and youth education initiatives teaching pattern-making, sewing, and design
* Global yet local sourcing — from Baltimore to the UK and back
* Creating standout custom pieces for clients like Real Housewives of Potomac’s Robin Dixon
* How Different Regard balances high-end design with community values and sustainability
* Kristan’s personal connection: Steven designed her suit for her national pageant
Key Quotes:
> “I want to show young people that you don’t have to sew to be in this space — there are so many ways to build a career in fashion.”
> “We don’t just make clothes; we make people feel different, confident, and connected to the process.”
> “Baltimore is where my story began — and it’s where I want to give back."
Connect:
🎧 Listen to more episodes: makersoftheusa.com
📸 Follow @makersoftheusa and @differentregard on Instagram
If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.
